Former footballers often take unexpected turns once their playing days are over, and former [West Ham](https://www.claretandhugh.info/gale-lomas-get-stop-the-protests-reaction-from-fans/) and Northern Ireland midfielder Steve Lomas has chosen a path far removed from the touchline. With his mother, Rosemary Lomas, stepping back from her long‑running business, Lomas has officially swapped dugouts for duvets, taking over ‘The Causeway’ Bed and Breakfast in County Antrim, a stylish four‑star townhouse known for its modern en‑suite rooms and warm Northern Irish welcome.
Announcing the move on social media, Lomas quipped, _“I decided to take it on once I made the decision to move home. It gives me something to keep me occupied and out of trouble.”_
Lomas in his playing days
A far cry from Premier League pressure, but certainly a new kind of challenge.
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Lomas’ journey since leaving West Ham in 2005 has been anything but dull. After two seasons at QPR and a year with Gillingham, he rounded off his playing career as player‑manager at St Neots, a role that nudged him toward full‑time management. In 2011, he took charge of St Johnstone, guiding the club to consecutive UEFA Europa League qualifications in 2011–12 and 2012–13, a notable achievement for the Perth side.
Then came the move that raised eyebrows, a switch to Millwall in 2013, West Ham’s fiercest rivals. It proved a short‑lived and turbulent stint, lasting just six months and yielding six wins, six draws, and twelve defeats.
Now, instead of navigating relegation battles, Lomas is navigating breakfast orders and guest check‑ins — a new chapter, perhaps calmer, but still full of character.
All at _Claret & Hugh_ wish him well with his new venture, and I’ve no doubt West Ham fans will be greeted with open arms whenever they make their way to Bushmills, County Antrim.